REVIEWBCR-ABL (Ph)-like acute leukemia-Pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapeutic options

Recent comprehensive genetic studies revealed numerous genetic aberrations underlying a group of high-risk leukemias that share a specific activated kinase gene expression pattern. These ALLs were first recognized by the expression profile similar to that of Philadelphia chromosome-positive ALL and currently can be sub-classified by the main aberrantly activated kinase in the leukemic cells. We herein review the biological mechanisms and diagnostic and clinical challenges presented by these leukemias.